Approximately 5:10 PM on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, the Lodi Fire Department was dispatched to 199 Garibaldi Avenue for reports of a building “well involved” with fire. Chief Telep arrived on scene and established command. Second Assistant Chief Louis Avola ran operations in the front of the building while Third Assistant Chief Matt Lombardi ran operations in the rear of the building.

The Lodi Fire Department was the first alarm assignment and was met with a large volume of fire from the building. A second alarm was immediately transmitted, and later changed to a third alarm. In total, 16 towns assisted with the fire and a 3 engine relay was established for a water supply.

The fire started in the rear of the building and spread to the rest of the building after jumping over a fire wall. The fire was brought under control around midnight with companies attacking hot spots well into the morning due to roof collapses. The building has been vacant for over 5 years prior to the fire.

There were no serious injuries reported and the fire is still under investigation.

On Tuesday, February 18th, the officers of the Lodi Fire Department attended the monthly Mayor & Council meeting at which they were sworn in to their respective positions. Chief Keith Bruining was sworn in by Mayor Marc Schrieks. Third Assistant Chief John Funk was sworn...

“WNWD 462, Lodi Communications to the Lodi Fire Department, at this time Firefighter Gary Guarino will be answering his last and final call. His memory is still in our hearts. WNWD 462, Lodi Communications signing off. Time now is 2020.” On Tuesday, April 2nd, 2013...

On Saturday January 19th, 2013 the Lodi Fire Department held a dinner honoring Chief Matt Lombardi. During the dinner the Chief and his assistant chiefs had their badges pinned on by friends, family, and significant others. the dinner was held at the Royal Manor in...